Frequently Asked Questions

One of ATEP's goals is to increase the number of First Nations, Métis and Inuit teachers in the classroom. As such, the program is designed for Aboriginal post-secondary students. However, all students with a heart and commitment for Aboriginal education are encouraged to apply.

Yes, ATEP accepts students directly from high school. Please email atepuofa@ualberta.ca to find out about admission cycles for upcoming cohorts.

Yes, ATEP accepts transfer students from post-secondary institutions, including other faculties within the University of Alberta. Please email atepuofa@ualberta.ca to find out about admission cycles for upcoming cohorts.

For general inquiries, please email atepuofa@ualberta.ca, or use the Contact Us link on the right-hand side of the page. If you would like to set up an initial admissions consultation, please email atepadvi@ualberta.ca to arrange a time to meet. Please allow up to two business days for a response.

Please refer to the Application Process page of the ATEP website for a step-by-step guide. 

Applications open in October and close in March, and we recommend applying as early as possible. The sooner you apply and submit your required documents, the sooner we can evaluate your application. 

Please refer to the Admission Requirement page of the ATEP website for specific requirements.

The Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) is based on all university transferable coursework completed in the most recent two terms of study if they contain a minimum of 24 units. If those two terms contain less than 24 units, all work in the next most recent term(s) is included in the calculation until the minimum total of 24 units is reached. For applicants who have attempted less than 24 units of transferable postsecondary work, the AGPA is based on all university or university transfer credits attempted along with applicable high school requirements.

The lowest grade acceptable can vary depending on the institution from which you are transferring. Any course with a grade lower than 60% or lower than C- will not be transferable.

All transferable coursework will be considered for use toward degree requirements, regardless of age. We evaluate your transfer credit upon admission based on existing transfer agreements accessible through Transfer Alberta.

Please visit the Required Documents section of the ATEP website. After submitting their application, students are encouraged to log into their Launchpad account for a complete list of required documentation. 

Students do not need a Criminal Record Check for admission to the program. However, school boards require student teachers to complete a Criminal Record Check (through the RCMP or City Police) and an Intervention Record Check (through Alberta Child and Youth Services) before beginning a practicum.

Please visit the U of A's Tuition and Scholarships page for information.

Yes, the online program meets all of the same standards and rigor as the on-campus program. You will graduate with the same Bachelor of Education degree as the on-campus students.

Students in Elementary Education take a generalist program (and do not choose a major or minor) which is directed towards teaching Kindergarten through Grade 6, while students in Secondary Education are specialists with a subject major and minor, focusing on Grades 7-12.

Program Sheets are specific to the student and based on the type of degree and previous post-secondary experience. Students must follow their individual Program Sheet.

Once you have completed the required courses you will qualify for a Bachelor of Education Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Alberta.

ATEP is an elementary generalist program that focuses on K-6 education in Alberta. However, the Elementary generalist program will prepare you to teach a wide range of subjects and your Alberta teaching certificate allows you to teach any grade, anywhere in the province’s K-12 system. 

Once a teacher has been certificated in Alberta, they can apply for teacher certification in another province. Each province/territory in the country has a Department/Ministry of Education that conducts teacher certification for their jurisdiction.